Cartridges for Vaporizer Devices

ABSTRACT

Vaporizer cartridges for vaporizer devices are disclosed herein. In one exemplary implementation, the cartridge can include a vaporization channel configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from the atomizer to the outlet. The vaporization channel includes a plurality of channels, in which at least one channel is a grooved channel defining a fluid passageway extending from a first end to a second end, and the grooved channel having a plurality of grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway. Vaporizer devices are also disclosed herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/394,144 filed on Aug. 1, 2022, and entitled “Cartridges For Vaporizer Devices,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter described herein relates to vaporizer cartridges and vaporizer devices using the same.

BACKGROUND

Vaporizer devices, which can also be referred to as vaporizers, electronic vaporizer devices, or e-vaporizer devices, can be used for delivery of an aerosol (for example, a vapor-phase and/or condensed-phase material suspended in a stationary or moving mass of air or some other gas carrier) containing one or more active ingredients by inhalation of the aerosol by a user of the vaporizing device. For example, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) include a class of vaporizer devices that are battery powered and that can be used to simulate the experience of smoking, but without burning of tobacco or other substances. Vaporizer devices are gaining increasing popularity both for prescriptive medical use, in delivering medicaments, and for consumption of tobacco, nicotine, and other plant-based materials. Vaporizer devices can be portable, self-contained, and/or convenient for use.

In use of a vaporizer device, the user inhales an aerosol, colloquially referred to as “vapor,” which can be generated by a heating element that vaporizes (e.g., causes a liquid or solid to at least partially transition to the gas phase) a vaporizable material, which can be liquid, a solution, a solid, a paste, a wax, and/or any other form compatible for use with a specific vaporizer device. The vaporizable material used with a vaporizer device can be provided within a vaporizer cartridge (for example, a separable part of the vaporizer device that contains vaporizable material) that includes an outlet (for example, a mouthpiece) for inhalation of the aerosol by a user.

To receive the inhalable aerosol generated by a vaporizer device, a user may, in certain examples, activate the vaporizer device by taking a puff, by pressing a button, and/or by some other approach. A puff as used herein can refer to inhalation by the user in a manner that causes a volume of air to be drawn into the vaporizer device such that the inhalable aerosol is generated by a combination of the vaporized vaporizable material with the volume of air.

An approach by which a vaporizer device generates an inhalable aerosol from a vaporizable material involves heating the vaporizable material in a vaporization chamber (e.g., a heater chamber) to cause the vaporizable material to be converted to the gas (or vapor) phase. A vaporization chamber can refer to an area or volume in the vaporizer device within which a heat source (for example, a conductive, convective, and/or radiative heat source) causes heating of a vaporizable material to produce a mixture of air and vaporized material to form a vapor for inhalation of the vaporizable material by a user of the vaporizer device.

In some implementations, the vaporizable material can be drawn out of a reservoir and into the vaporization chamber. However, application of heat, manual pressure, or any type of negative pressure event (e.g., pressure drop inside an airplane cabin) may cause the air volume or bubbles in a cartridge reservoir to expand as the ambient pressure becomes negative in relation to the internal pressure. Disadvantageously, such pressure changes result in the vaporizable material overflowing out of the reservoir, e.g., through a wicking element, and directly into the fluid passageway (e.g., airflow passageway) of the cartridge. This can allow for direct inhalation of vaporizable material, in liquid form, thereby causing an undesirable sensation or taste in the user's mouth.

Alternatively, or in addition, in some implementations, vaporizing vaporizable material into an aerosol may result in condensate collecting along one or more internal channels and outlets (e.g., along the airflow tube and/or a mouthpiece) of some vaporizer devices. For example, such condensate may include vaporizable material that was drawn from a reservoir, formed into an aerosol, and condensed into the condensate prior to exiting the vaporizer device. Moreover, the condensate can travel away from the mouthpiece and ultimately form a meniscus over one or more of the air inlets of the airflow tube. As a result, the condensate can be directly inhaled by the user during use of the vaporizer device, thereby creating both an unpleasant user experience as well as decreasing the amount of inhalable aerosol otherwise available. Furthermore, the buildup and loss of condensate can ultimately result in the inability to draw all of the vaporizable material from the reservoir and into the vaporization chamber, thereby wasting vaporizable material. For example, as vaporizable material particulates accumulate in the internal channels of an airflow tube downstream of the vaporization chamber, the effective cross-sectional area of the airflow tube narrows, thus increasing the flow rate of the air and thereby applying drag forces onto the accumulated fluid consequently amplifying the potential to entrain fluid from the internal channels and through the mouthpiece outlet.

Vaporizable material leaks in general are problematic because such leaks typically interfere with the functionality and cleanliness of the vaporizer device (e.g., leaked vaporizable material plugs the electric ports or makes a mess that requires cleaning). Additionally, user experience is negatively impacted by leakage of vaporizable material from a cartridge due to the possibility of staining or damaging other articles or fabrics adjacent to a leaking cartridge.

Accordingly, vaporizer devices and/or vaporizer cartridges that address one or more of these issues are desired.

SUMMARY

In certain aspects of the current subject matter, challenges associated with direct inhalation of vaporizable material in liquid form can be addressed by inclusion of one or more of the features described herein or comparable/equivalent approaches as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Aspects of the current subject matter relate to vaporizer cartridges for use in a vaporizer device and vaporizer devices.

In some implementations, one or more of the following features may optionally be included in any feasible combination.

In one implementation, an exemplary cartridge for a vaporizer device includes a cartridge housing and a vaporization channel extending at least partially through the cartridge housing. The cartridge housing includes a reservoir configured to selectively contain vaporizable material. The vaporization channel is configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from an atomizer to an outlet of the cartridge. The vaporization channel includes a plurality of first channels in which each first channel creates a fluid passageway that extends from a first end to a second end of the first channel, in which the first end is proximate to the atomizer. The vaporization channel also includes at least one second channel in fluid communication with and downstream of the plurality of first channels, in which the at least one second channel is proximate to the outlet. At least one first channel of the plurality of first channels is a grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the grooved channel such that the fluid passageway of at least one of the grooved channel and another first channel remains open to allow vaporized material to pass therethrough and into the at least one second channel.

In some implementations, at least one of the first channels of the plurality of first channels can have a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can include a first segment and a second segment that is downstream of the first segment. The first segment can include the plurality of first channels. The first segment can have a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge. In certain implementations, the second segment can include the at least one second channel.

In some implementations, at least one groove of the plurality of grooves can have a triangular-shaped configuration.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can include a baffle that can be positioned between the plurality of first channels. The baffle can be configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material within the vaporization channel.

In some implementations, the reservoir can include a storage chamber that can be configured to selectively contain the vaporizable material and a collector that can be in fluid communication with the storage chamber. The plurality of first channels can be positioned within the collector. In some implementations, a portion of the second segment of the vaporization channel can be located within the collector. In certain implementations, the cartridge can include the atomizer, and the atomizer can include an atomizer housing having a wicking element that can be disposed therein and in fluid communication with the plurality of first channels. The collector can include at least one recess defined therein, and the at least one recess can create a gap between the collector and the atomizer housing that can prevent vaporizable material from being drawn between a bottom outer-most surface of the collector and a top outer-most surface of the atomizer housing. The atomizer can include a heating element that can have a heating portion that can be disposed within the atomizer housing, and a connecting portion that can be disposed at least partially outside the atomizer housing. The gap can be located between the connecting portion of the heating element and the collector. The collector can also include at least one tab that can extend outwards from the bottom-most surface of the collector. The at least one tab can be configured to be inserted into a respective cut-out of the atomizer housing such that a portion of the connecting portion is positioned between the at least one tab and the atomizer housing. In such implementations, the at least one recess of the collector can be positioned adjacent and proximate to the at least one tab. The at least one tab can have a trapezoidal shape.

In some implementations, the cartridge can include a wicking element that can be disposed within the cartridge housing. The grooves can be in fluid communication with the wicking element.

In some implementations, another at least one first channel of the plurality of first channels can be another grooved channel that can have grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel.

In some implementations, the plurality of first channels can be positioned laterally offset from each other relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge housing.

In another implementation, an exemplary cartridge for a vaporizer device includes a vaporization channel extending from an atomizer toward an outlet of the cartridge, in which the vaporization channel is configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from the atomizer to the outlet. The vaporization channel includes a plurality of channels in which at least one channel of the plurality of channels is a grooved channel defining a fluid passageway extending from a first end to a second end, the first end being proximate to the atomizer, and the grooved channel having a plurality of grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway.

In some implementations, at least one channel of the plurality of channels can have a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can include a first segment and a second segment that is downstream of the first segment. The first segment can include the plurality of channels, and the first segment can have a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge. In certain implementations, the second segment can include at least one other channel, in which the at least one other channel can be in fluid communication with the plurality of channels.

In some implementations, at least one groove of the plurality of grooves can have a triangular-shaped configuration.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can include a baffle that can be positioned between the plurality of channels. The baffle can be configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material within the vaporization channel.

In some implementations, the cartridge can include a wicking element that can be disposed within the cartridge. The grooves can be in fluid communication with the wicking element.

In some implementations, another at least one channel of the plurality of channels can be another grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel.

In some implementations, the plurality of channels can be positioned laterally offset from each other relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

Vaporizer devices are also disclosed. In one implementation, an exemplary vaporizer device includes a vaporizer body and any cartridge as described above, in which the cartridge is configured to be coupled to the vaporizer body.

In some implementations, the cartridge can be removable from the vaporizer body.

The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. The claims that follow this disclosure are intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional front view of an implementation of a vaporizer cartridge having a vaporization channel with a grooved channel;

FIG. 2 is a magnified view of a portion of the vaporization channel of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the portion of the vaporization channel of FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 4 is a partially transparent front view of a vaporizer device having a vaporizer body and a cartridge, showing the vaporizer body and cartridge uncoupled from each other;

FIG. 5 is a partially transparent front view of the vaporizer device of FIG. 5 , showing the vaporizer cartridge inserted into and coupled to the vaporizer body;

FIG. 6 illustrates a partially transparent front view of an implementation of a vaporizer cartridge having an atomizer with an atomizer housing and heating and wicking elements, and a collector with a grooved channel;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the vaporizer cartridge of FIG. 6 ;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the collector of FIG. 6

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the collector of FIG. 6 ;

FIG. 10 is an exploded front view of the atomizer of the vaporizer cartridge of FIG. 6 ;

FIG. 11 is top down perspective view of the atomizer assembly of FIG. 6 ;

FIG. 12 is the atomizer of FIG. 10 , showing only the atomizer housing

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the atomizer and collector of FIG. 6 taken at line 13; and

FIG. 14 is another cross-sectional side view of the atomizer and collector of FIG. 6 taken at line 13.

When practical, similar reference numbers denote similar structures, features, or elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Implementations of the current subject matter include methods, apparatuses, articles of manufacture, and systems relating to vaporization of one or more materials for inhalation by a user. Example implementations include vaporizer devices and systems including vaporizer devices. The term “vaporizer device” as used in the following description and claims refers to any of a self-contained apparatus, an apparatus that includes two or more separable parts (for example, a vaporizer body that includes a battery and other hardware, and a cartridge that includes a vaporizable material), and/or the like. A “vaporizer system,” as used herein, can include one or more components, such as a vaporizer device. Examples of vaporizer devices consistent with implementations of the current subject matter include electronic vaporizers, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), and/or the like. In general, such vaporizer devices are hand-held devices that heat (such as by convection, conduction, radiation, and/or some combination thereof) a vaporizable material to provide an inhalable dose of the material.

The vaporizable material used with a vaporizer device can be provided within a cartridge (for example, a part of the vaporizer that contains the vaporizable material in a reservoir or other container) which can be refillable when empty, or disposable such that a new cartridge containing additional vaporizable material of a same or different type can be used). A vaporizer device can be a cartridge-using vaporizer device, a cartridge-less vaporizer device, or a multi-use vaporizer device capable of use with or without a cartridge. For example, a vaporizer device can include a heating chamber (for example, an oven or other region in which material is heated by a heating element) configured to receive a vaporizable material directly into the heating chamber, and/or a reservoir or the like for containing the vaporizable material.

In some implementations, a vaporizer device can be configured for use with a liquid vaporizable material. For example, the liquid vaporizable material may include a carrier solution in which an active and/or inactive ingredient(s) are suspended or held in solution. Alternatively, the liquid vaporizable material may be a liquid form of the vaporizable material itself. The liquid vaporizable material can be capable of being completely vaporized. Alternatively, at least a portion of the liquid vaporizable material can remain after all of the material suitable for inhalation has been vaporized.

Various events can cause the ambient pressure to decrease relative to the internal pressure of the cartridge, for example, the application of heat, manual pressure, any type of negative pressure event (e.g., pressure drop inside an airplane cabin), etc. This change in pressure can cause vaporizable material (e.g., vaporizable material in liquid form) to leak to the environment or to other portions of the cartridge. By way of example, these undesirable leaks can cause vaporizable material to exit the mouthpiece outlet of the cartridge and deposit into the mouth of a user. Further, condensation formation within an airflow channel (e.g., a vaporization channel) of the cartridge can also cause vaporizable material in the form of condensate to exit the mouthpiece outlet of the cartridge and deposit into the mouth of a user. These events can create both an unpleasant user experience as well as decrease the amount of inhalable aerosol otherwise available. Further, vaporizable material leaks can occur and interfere with the functionality and cleanliness of the vaporizer device, both of which impact a user's experience. Various features and devices are described below that improve upon or overcome these issues.

The vaporizer cartridges described herein utilize a grooved channel within a vaporization channel of the cartridge to trap vaporizable material (e.g., vaporizable material in liquid form) that has circumvented the vaporization process (e.g., as a result of a negative pressure event, condensate formation, etc.) and redirect the vaporizable material to unblock the vaporization channel. That is, the grooved channel is configured to collect and remove (e.g., drain) the vaporizable material from the vaporization channel and prevent the vaporizable material from being deposited into the user's mouth, during the user puffing or inhaling directly on the vaporizer cartridge itself, or alternatively on a mouthpiece coupled thereto. Thus, direct inhalation of vaporizable material, e.g., in liquid form, can therefore be avoided. Further, the collection and removal of the vaporizable material from the vaporization channel can also inhibit leakage of the vaporizable material, e.g., out of the cartridge through an outlet. Vaporizable material that has circumvented the vaporization process can be referred to as unvaporized vaporizable material.

The vaporizer cartridges described herein generally include a vaporization channel having a plurality of channels (e.g., a plurality of first channels), in which at least one of the channels is grooved. The grooved channel defines a fluid passageway extending from a first end to a second end. The grooved channel includes a plurality of grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway, which function as micro-fluidic features that remove unvaporized vaporizable material present within the fluid passageway. More specifically, the plurality of grooves help maintain an unblocked fluid passageway along the vaporization channel. As a result, vaporized material can pass freely through the vaporization channel from the atomizer to the outlet of the cartridge without resulting in an undesirable sensation or taste in the user's mouth that would otherwise occur through direct inhalation of unvaporized vaporizable material.

The vaporization channel is configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from an atomizer to an outlet of the cartridge. The plurality of channels (e.g., a plurality of first channels) can be positioned in a variety of orientations within the vaporization channel. For example, the plurality of channels can be positioned laterally offset from each other relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

The plurality of channels (e.g., a plurality of first channels) can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some implementations, at least one channel of the plurality of channels can have a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge. In other implementations, the at least one channel or another channel of the plurality of channels can have a cross-section that tapers away from the outlet of the cartridge (e.g., towards an atomizer of the cartridge). In certain implementations, all the channels of the plurality of channels can have a cross-section that tapers either towards or away from the outlet of the cartridge. In other implementations, all the channels of the plurality of channels can have a cross section that does not taper. In some implementations, at least one channel of the plurality of channels can have a cross-section that is rectangular in shape.

In some implementations, the plurality of channels can include one or more additional grooved channels. For example, in one implementation, the plurality of channels includes another grooved channel that can have grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel also includes at least one second channel that is in fluid communication with and downstream of the plurality of channels. The at least one second channel can be positioned in a variety of locations within the vaporization channel. For example, the at least one second channel can be positioned proximate to the outlet. In this way, as a result of the grooved channel, the fluid passageway of at least one of the grooved channel and another channel of the plurality of channels remains open to allow vaporized material to pass therethrough and into the at least one second channel for inhalation by a user

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can include a first segment and a second segment that is downstream of the first segment. The first segment and the second segment can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some implementations, the first segment can include the plurality of channels. Alternatively, or in addition, the second segment can include at least one other channel, in which the at least one other channel can be in fluid communication with the plurality of channels.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel can also include a baffle that can be positioned between the plurality of channels. The baffle can be configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material within the vaporization channel.

The grooves of the grooved channel can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some implementations, at least one groove can extend along the entire length of the grooved channel. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one groove can extend along a portion of the length of the grooved channel. In some implementations, all the grooves extend along the entire length of the grooved channel. In other implementations, all the grooved extend along a portion of the length of the grooved channel.

The grooves can have a variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, in some implementations, at least one groove can have a triangular-shaped configuration. In other implementations, at least one groove can have other suitable shaped configurations, for example, an enclosed tubular configuration, circular-shaped, rectangular-shaped, c-shaped, etc.

In some implementations, the plurality of channels can include another grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel. The another grooved channel can have similar, or completely the same, structural configuration as that of the at least one groove of the grooved channel discussed above. For example, in some implementations, all the grooved channels of the vaporization channel can be similar or completely the same. In other implementations, the another grooved channel can have a different structural configuration (e.g., shape, size, and the like) relative to the at least one groove of the grooved channel discussed above. For example, in certain implementations, at least one grooved channel can be different than another grooved channel of the vaporization channel. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and structural configuration of the grooved channels depends at least upon the structural dimensions of the vaporization channel and the cartridge itself.

The cartridges disclosed herein can have a variety of configurations and can include additional elements to that of the vaporization channel. For example, the cartridge can include a cartridge housing. The cartridge housing can extend from a first end to a second end with a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The cartridge housing can include a reservoir that is configured to selectively contain vaporizable material.

The reservoir can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the reservoir can include a storage chamber that can be configured to selectively contain the vaporizable material and a collector that can be in fluid communication with the storage chamber.

The collector can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some implementations, the plurality of channels can be positioned within the collector. As such, the grooved channel can be positioned within the collector. The plurality of channels can be positioned laterally offset from each other relative to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge housing. Each channel can create a fluid passageway that extends from a first end to a second end of the channel, in which the first end is proximate to the atomizer. In some implementations, a portion of the second segment of the vaporization channel can be located within the collector.

In certain implementations, the cartridge can include the atomizer. The atomizer can have a variety of configurations. For example, in some implementations, the atomizer can include an atomizer housing having a wicking element that can be disposed therein and in fluid communication with the plurality of first channels. Alternatively, or in addition, the atomizer can also include a heating element that can have a heating portion that can be disposed within the atomizer housing, and a connecting portion that can be disposed at least partially outside the atomizer housing.

In some implementations, the collector can include at least one recess defined therein, and the at least one recess can create a gap between the collector and the atomizer housing that can prevent vaporizable material from being drawn between a bottom outer-most surface of the collector and a top outer-most surface of the atomizer housing. In certain implementations, the gap can be located between the connecting portion of the heating element and the collector.

Alternatively, or in addition, the collector can include at least one tab that can extend outwards from the bottom-most surface of the collector. The at least one tab can be configured to be inserted into a respective cut-out of the atomizer housing such that a portion of the connecting portion is positioned between the at least one tab and the atomizer housing. In such implementations, the at least one recess of the collector can be positioned adjacent and proximate to the at least one tab. The at least one tab can have a variety of configurations. For example, in one implementation, the at least tab has a trapezoidal shape. In other implementations, the at least one tab can have other suitable shapes, for example, triangle, square, etc.

In some implementations, the cartridge can include a wicking element that can be disposed within the cartridge. In such implementations, the grooves of the grooved channel (and of any additional grooved channel) can be in fluid communication with the wicking element.

To further illustrate, FIGS. 1-7 depict various examples of vaporizer cartridges that include a vaporization channel consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. Further, FIGS. 4 and 5 depict an example of a vaporizer device that includes a vaporizer cartridge as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 1-3 depict an exemplary vaporizer cartridge 100 for a vaporizer device. More specifically, the vaporizer cartridge 100 includes a cartridge housing 102 and a vaporization channel 104 extending at least partially through the cartridge housing 102. In this implementation, the vaporization channel 104 leads to an outlet 106 of the cartridge 100, which in this case is also an outlet of the cartridge housing 102. In other implementations, the outlet of the cartridge 100 can be an outlet of a mouthpiece that is coupled to an end of the cartridge housing, where the outlet of the mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the outlet of the cartridge housing. Further, depending on the implementation, the vaporizer cartridge 100 can also include an atomizer 108, which is generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , whereas in other implementations, the atomizer 108 can be part of a vaporizer body, like vaporizer body 202 in FIGS. 4 and 5 . The atomizer 108 can be configured to vaporize a vaporizable material (e.g., vaporizable material, in liquid form) within the cartridge housing 102 into vaporized material for inhalation by a user.

The cartridge housing 102 includes a reservoir 110 that is configured to selectively hold a vaporizable material (e.g., vaporizable material, in liquid form). While the cartridge housing 102 can have a variety of sizes and shapes, the cartridge housing 102, as shown in FIG. 1 , is substantially rectangular in shape, and includes at least two sets of opposing sidewalls 112, 114 in which the first set of opposing sidewalls 112 extends substantially perpendicular (e.g., in the Y-direction) to the second set of opposing sidewalls 114. As shown, these sidewalls 112, 114 define at least a portion of the reservoir 110.

The cartridge housing 102 extends from a first end 116 to a second end 118 with a longitudinal axis L extending therebetween (e.g., extending in the Y-direction). The outlet 106 of the cartridge housing 102 is positioned at the second end 118. As a result, the second end 118 of the cartridge housing 102 can function as a mouthpiece itself of the cartridge 100. In use, a user can puff on the second end 118 of the cartridge housing 102 such that the air and vaporized material within the vaporizer cartridge 100 can be delivered directly to the user from the outlet 106 for inhalation. Alternatively, a mouthpiece (not shown) can be coupled to the second end 118 of the cartridge housing 102, in which case the user can puff on the mouthpiece rather than directly on the second end 118 of the cartridge housing 102. As such, the air and vaporized material within the vaporizer cartridge 100 (e.g., within the vaporization channel 104) can travel from the outlet 106 into the mouthpiece for inhalation by the user.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the vaporization channel 104 extends from the atomizer 108 to the outlet 106 of the cartridge 100 and therefore can allow fluid (e.g., vaporized material) to pass from the atomizer 108 to the outlet 106 for inhalation by a user. While the vaporization channel 104 can have a variety of configurations, in some implementations, as shown in FIG. 1 , the vaporization channel 104 includes a first segment 120 and a second segment 122 that is downstream of the first segment 120. For example, the second segment 122 can be positioned proximate to the outlet 106 of the cartridge housing 102.

The first segment 120 and the second segment 122 can each have a variety of configurations. In some implementations, the first and second segment 120, 122 can have the same cross-sectional shape, whereas in other implementations, the first and second segments 120, 122 can have different cross-sectional shapes relative to each other. In this illustrated implementation, the first segment 120 has a cross-section that tapers toward the outlet 106 and the second segment 122 has a non-tapering cross-section. In other embodiments, the cross-section of the first segment 120 can be non-tapered, and the cross-section of the second segment 122 can be either tapered or non-tapered. Further, depending on the implementation, the first segment 120 can include a single channel or multiple channels. Similarly, depending on the implementation, the second segment 122 can include a single channel or multiple channels. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the size, shape, and overall cross-section of the segments themselves and the number of channels within the segments can depend at least upon the structural dimensions of the other components of the vaporizer cartridge and the vaporizer cartridge itself.

As shown in FIG. 1 , and in further detail in FIG. 2 , the first segment 120 includes a plurality of first channels 124, in which in this example, includes two first channels 124 a, 124 b, and the second segment 122 includes at least one second channel 126 that is in fluid communication with the plurality of first channels 124. While two first channels 124 a, 124 b are illustrated, it should be appreciated that the vaporization channel 104 can include more than two first channels in other implementations, and therefore the number of first channels is not limited to the number depicted in FIG. 1 . Similarly, while the second channel includes a single second channel, it should be appreciated that the vaporization channel 104 can include more than a single second channel in other implementations, and therefore the number of second channels is not limited to number depicted in FIG. 1 .

The two first channels 124 a, 124 b can be positioned within the vaporization channel 104 in a variety of different orientations. For example, in this implementation, the two first channels 124 a, 124 b are positioned laterally offset from each other relative to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge housing 102. Each first channel 124 a, 124 b creates a respective fluid passageway 128 a, 128 b that is configured to allow fluid (e.g., vaporized material) to pass therethrough from the atomizer 108 toward the outlet 106 of the cartridge 100. Each respective fluid passageway 128 a, 128 b extends from a first end 130 a, 132 a to a second end 130 b, 132 b of its respective first channel 124 a, 124 b. The first end 130 a, 132 a is proximate to the atomizer 108 and the second end 130 b, 132 b being proximate to the second segment 122 of the vaporization channel 104.

In some implementations, the vaporization channel 104 can include a baffle 134 that is configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material that passes into the vaporization channel 104, at least in part from the atomizer 108. For example, as further shown in FIG. 1 , and in FIG. 2 , the vaporization channel 104 includes a baffle 134 that is positioned between the plurality of first channels 124, and more specifically, positioned between the first two channels 124 a, 124 b. As a result, the first two channels 124 a, 124 b are separated from each other by the baffle 134, and therefore, at least one wall of the channel is the baffle 134. In other implementations, the baffle 134 can be positioned within the vaporization channel 104 at other suitable locations.

As shown in FIG. 1 , and in further detail in FIGS. 2 and 3 , one channel 124 a of the first two channels is a grooved channel 136 that includes grooves 138 that extend in a direction along the fluid passageway 128 a of the one channel 124 a. In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 3 , the grooves 138 can be positioned along a portion of the perimeter of the grooved channel 136. In other implementations, the grooves 138 can be positioned along the entire perimeter of the grooved channel 136.

The grooves 138 are configured to transport vaporizable material (e.g., unvaporized vaporizable material, in the liquid form) that is present within or at least in fluid communication with at least the grooved channel 136 back towards the atomizer 108 (e.g., back to a wicking element of the atomizer 108 for reuse) so as to thereby drain the grooved channel 136. As noted above, vaporizable material can be present within at least the grooved channel 136 as a result of a negative pressure event that causes vaporizable material to travel from the atomizer 108 towards the outlet 106 of the cartridge 100, and consequently, into the vaporization channel 104. Alternatively, or in addition, as noted above, vaporizable material can be present within at least the grooved channel 136 as a result of a condensation formation in the vaporization channel 106, for example, in the second channel 126, in which the resulting condensate travels away from the outlet 106 of the cartridge 100 and down the vaporization channel 104. Further, the grooves 138 provide extra topography within the grooved channel 136, which can prevent a meniscus of vaporizable material from wetting about the entire perimeter of the grooved channel 136. As a result, the fluid passageway 128 a of the grooved channel 136, and thus the first channel 124 a, can remain unblocked (open) for vaporized material to pass therethrough and into the at least one second channel 126. This therefore prevents direct inhalation of vaporizable material that would otherwise be present in the fluid passageway 128 a.

Alternatively, or in addition, when vaporizable material is present within the vaporization channel 104, the other first channel 124 b (e.g., the non-grooved channel) of the first two channels, and thus the fluid passageway 128 b thereof can also be clogged. In such instances, the grooves 138 can draw the vaporizable material into the grooved channel 136 and away from the other first channel 124 b. As a result, the fluid passageway 128 b of the other first channel 124 b can become unblocked and therefore remain open to allow vaporized material to pass therethrough and into the at least one second channel 126. Thus, in such instances, even if the grooved channel 136 remains blocked with vaporizable material, the fluid passageway 128 b of the other first channel 124 b will remain open and thereby avoid direct inhalation of vaporizable material that would otherwise be present within the vaporization channel 104. In either implementation, during use, the grooves 138 of the grooved channel 136 unblock the fluid passageway 128 a, 128 b of at least one of the grooved channel 136 and the other first channel 124 b. In this way, vaporized material has at least one fluid passageway 128 a, 128 b to travel through from the atomizer 108 to the at least one second channel 126 of the vaporization channel 104, and ultimately, through the outlet 106 of the cartridge 100 for inhalation.

The grooves 138 can have a variety of configurations. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-3 , the grooves 138 are tapered such that the grooves 138 are wider towards the first end 130 a of the first channel 124 a (i.e., the grooved channel 136) and narrower towards the second end 130 b of the first channel 124 a. Further, in this implementation, all the grooves 138 have a triangular-shaped configuration. However, in other implementations, the grooves 138 can have other suitable shapes, for example, an enclosed tubular configuration, circular-shaped, rectangular-shaped, c-shaped, etc. Further, in some implementations, the grooves 138 can include different shaped grooves relative to each other. The number, size, and shape of the grooves will depend at least upon the structural configuration of the vaporization channel, and therefore, it should be appreciated that the number, size, and shape of the grooves are not limited to what is depicted in FIGS. 1-3 .

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate an exemplary vaporizer device 200 that includes a vaporizer body 202 and a vaporizer cartridge 204. In FIG. 4 , the vaporizer body 202 and the vaporizer cartridge 204 are illustrated in a decoupled configuration, whereas in FIG. 5 , the vaporizer body 202 and the vaporizer cartridge 204 are illustrated in a coupled configuration. The vaporizer cartridge 204 is similar to vaporizer cartridge 100 in FIGS. 1-3 and is therefore not described in detail herein. For purposes of simplicity, certain components of the vaporizer device 200 are not illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 .

The vaporizer body 202 and the vaporizer cartridge 204 can be coupled to each other by way of corresponding coupling elements. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the vaporizer body 202 includes a first set of coupling elements 206 a, 206 b, and the vaporizer cartridge 204 includes a second set of corresponding coupling elements 208 a, 208 b. While the first and second set of coupling elements can have a variety of configurations, in this illustrated embodiment, the first set of coupling elements 206 a, 206 b includes two protrusions extending outward into the vaporizer body 202 and the second set of coupling elements 208 a, 208 b includes two recesses extending inward from two opposing sidewalls 209 a, 209 b of the vaporizer cartridge 204.

The vaporizer body 202 can have a variety of configurations. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the vaporizer body 202 includes a sleeve 210 that extends from a proximal end 210 a to a distal end 210 b. The sleeve 210 defines a cartridge receptacle 212 within the vaporizer body 202 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the vaporizer cartridge 204. The distal end 210 b of the sleeve 210 is coupled to a chassis 213 that is configured to house at least a portion of any additional components of the vaporizer device 200 (e.g., a power source, input device(s), sensor(s), output, a controller, communication hardware, memory, and the like). Once the vaporizer cartridge 204 is coupled to the vaporizer body 202, a fluid path 220, as shown in FIG. 5 , is created within the cartridge receptacle 212 between the chassis 213 and a distal surface 204 a of the vaporizer cartridge 204, and through the vaporization channel 216 of the cartridge 204.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the vaporizer device 200 may include a power source 302 (e.g., a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, a fuel cell, and/or the like) and a controller 304 (e.g., a processor, circuitry, etc. capable of executing logic). The controller 304 may be configured to control the delivery of heat to the atomizer 214 of the cartridge 204 to cause a vaporizable material to be converted from a condensed form (e.g., a liquid) to a gas phase. For example, the controller 304 may control the delivery of heat to the atomizer 214 by at least controlling a discharge of current from the power source 302 to the atomizer 214. The controller 304 may be part of one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) consistent with certain implementations of the current subject matter.

After conversion of the vaporizable material to the gas phase, and depending on the type of vaporizer device, the physical and chemical properties of the vaporizable material, and/or other factors, at least some of the gas-phase vaporizable material may condense to form particulate matter in at least a partial local equilibrium with the gas phase as part of an aerosol. The vaporizable material in the condensed phase (e.g., the particulate matter) in at least partial local equilibrium with the vaporizable material in the gas phase may form some or all of an inhalable dose provided by the vaporizer device 200 for a given puff or draw on the vaporizer device 200. It will be understood that the interplay between the vaporizable material in the gas phase and in the condensed phase in an aerosol generated by the vaporizer device 200 can be complex and dynamic, as factors such as ambient temperature, relative humidity, chemistry, flow conditions in fluid paths, such as airflow paths, (both inside the vaporizer and in the airways of a human or other animal), mixing of the gas-phase or aerosol-phase vaporizable material with other air streams, etc. may affect one or more physical parameters of an aerosol. In some vaporizer devices, and particularly for vaporizer devices for delivery of more volatile vaporizable materials, the inhalable dose may exist predominantly in the gas phase (i.e., formation of condensed phase particles may be very limited).

To enable the vaporizer device 200 to be used with liquid vaporizable materials (e.g., neat liquids, suspensions, solutions, mixtures, etc.), the atomizer 214 may include a wicking element (also referred to herein as a wick) formed from one or more materials capable of causing fluid motion by capillary pressure. The wicking element may convey a quantity of the liquid vaporizable material to a part of the atomizer 214 that includes a heating element (also not shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 ).

The wicking element is generally configured to draw liquid vaporizable material from the reservoir 215 of the cartridge 204 configured to contain (and that may in use contain) the liquid vaporizable material such that the liquid vaporizable material may be vaporized by heat generated by the heating element. The wicking element may also optionally allow air to enter the reservoir 215 to replace the volume of liquid removed. In other words, capillary action may pull liquid vaporizable material into the wicking element for vaporization by the heating element (described below), and air may, in some implementations of the current subject matter, return to the reservoir 215 through the wick to at least partially equalize pressure in the reservoir. Other approaches to allowing air back into the reservoir to equalize pressure are also within the scope of the current subject matter.

While the atomizer 214 is shown in FIG. 4 to be fully part of the cartridge 204, in other implementations, at least a portion of the atomizer (e.g., one or both of the wicking element and the heating element) may be located in, and thus part of, the vaporizer body of the vaporizer device. In implementations in which a portion of the atomizer (e.g., heating element and/or wicking element) is part of the vaporizer body, the vaporizer device can be configured to deliver liquid vaporizer material from the reservoir in the cartridge to the atomizer part(s) included in the vaporizer body.

The heating element can be or include one or more of a conductive heater, a radiative heater, and a convective heater. One type of heating element is a resistive heating element, which can be constructed of or at least include a material (e.g., a metal or alloy, for example a nickel-chromium alloy, or a non-metallic resistor) configured to dissipate electrical power in the form of heat when electrical current is passed through one or more resistive segments of the heating element. In some implementations of the current subject matter, the atomizer 214 can include a heating element that includes resistive coil or other heating element wrapped around, positioned within, integrated into a bulk shape of, pressed into thermal contact with, or otherwise arranged to deliver heat to a wicking element to cause a liquid vaporizable material drawn by the wicking element from a reservoir to be vaporized for subsequent inhalation by a user in a gas and/or a condensed (e.g., aerosol particles or droplets) phase. Other wicking element, heating element, and/or atomizer configurations are also possible, as discussed further below.

For example, the heating element may be stamped from a sheet of material and may be bent to conform to a shape of at least a portion of a wicking element. Configurations of the heating element may allow for more consistent and enhanced quality manufacturing of the heating element and may help to reduce tolerance issues that may arise during manufacturing processes when assembling a heating element having multiple components. The heating element may also improve the accuracy of measurements taken from the heating element (e.g., a resistance, a current, a temperature, etc.) due at least in part to the improved consistency in manufacturability of the heating element having reduced tolerance issues. A stamped and shaped heating element may desirably help to minimize heat losses and helps to ensure that the heating element may behave predictably to be heated to the appropriate temperature.

In accordance with one or more example implementations, the heating element may be made (e.g., stamped) from a sheet of material and either crimped around at least a portion of a wicking element or bent to provide a preformed element configured to receive the wicking element. For example, the wicking element may be pushed into the heating element. Alternatively and/or additionally, the heating element may be held in tension and pulled over the wicking element.

The heating element may be activated (e.g., the controller 304, which is optionally part of the vaporizer body 202, may cause current to pass from the power source 302 through a circuit including the heating element, which is optionally part of the cartridge 204), in association with a user puffing (e.g., drawing, inhaling, etc.) on the cartridge 204 itself or on a mouthpiece coupled to the cartridge 204 to cause air to flow from an air inlet, such as air inlet 218, along a fluid path, such as fluid path 220, that passes the atomizer 214 (e.g., wicking element and heating element), optionally through one or more condensation areas or chambers, to an air outlet of the cartridge 204 or of a mouthpiece coupled to the cartridge. As such, electrical contacts can be attached to the heating element to operatively couple to at least the power source 302, e.g., a power source disposed within a vaporizer body. The electrical contacts can have a variety of configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the electrical contacts are in the form of wires, which can be over molded. Further, incoming air passing along the fluid path passes over, through, etc. the atomizer, where gas phase vaporizable material is entrained into the air. As noted above, the entrained gas-phase vaporizable material may condense as it passes through the remainder of the fluid path such that an inhalable dose of the vaporizable material in an aerosol form can be delivered from the air outlet (e.g., of the cartridge itself or of a mouthpiece coupled to the cartridge for inhalation by a user).

The heating element may be activated in response to detecting a puff and/or determining that a puff is imminent. For example, puff detection may be performed based on one or more of signals generated by one or more sensors 306 included in the vaporizer device 200 such as, for example, one or more pressure sensors (e.g., configured to measure pressure along the fluid path relative to ambient pressure, changes in absolute pressure, and/or the like), motion sensors, flow sensors, capacitive sensors (e.g., configured to detect contact between a lip of the user and the vaporizer device 200). Alternatively and/or additionally, a puff (or an imminent puff) may be detected in response to detecting a user interacting with one or more input devices 308 included in the vaporizer device 200 (e.g., buttons or other tactile control devices of the vaporizer device 200), receipt of signals from a computing device in communication with the vaporizer device 200, and/or the like. It should be appreciated that puff detection including the determination of an imminent occurrence of a puff may be performed using a variety of techniques.

In some implementations of the current subject matter, the vaporizer device 200 may be configured to connect (e.g., wirelessly or via a wired connection) to a computing device (or optionally two or more devices) in communication with the vaporizer device 200. To this end, the controller 304 may include communication hardware 312. The controller 304 may also include a memory 314. A computing device can be a component of a vaporizer system that also includes the vaporizer device 200, and can include its own communication hardware, which can establish a wireless communication channel with the communication hardware 312 of the vaporizer device 200. For example, a computing device used as part of a vaporizer system may include a general purpose computing device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, some other portable device such as a smartwatch, or the like) that executes software to produce a user interface for enabling a user of the device to interact with a vaporizer. In other implementations of the current subject matter, such a device used as part of a vaporizer system can be a dedicated piece of hardware such as a remote control or other wireless or wired device having one or more physical or soft (e.g., configurable on a screen or other display device and selectable via user interaction with a touch-sensitive screen or some other input device like a mouse, pointer, trackball, cursor buttons, or the like) interface controls.

The vaporizer can also include one or more outputs 310 features or devices for providing information to the user. For example, the outputs can include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to provide feedback to a user based on a status and/or mode of operation of the vaporizer device. In some aspects, the one or more outputs can include a plurality of LEDs (i.e., two, three, four, five, or six LEDs). The one or more outputs (i.e., each individual LED) can be configured to display light in one or more colors (for example, white, red, blue, green, yellow, etc.). The one or more outputs can be configured to display different light patterns (for example, by illuminating specific LEDs, varying a light intensity of one or more of the LEDs over time, illuminating one or more LEDs with a different color, and/or the like) to indicate different statuses, modes of operation, and/or the like of the vaporizer device. In some implementations, the one or more outputs can be proximal to and/or at least partially disposed within a bottom end region of the vaporizer device. The vaporizer device may, additionally or alternatively, include externally accessible charging contacts, which can be proximate to and/or at least partially disposed within the bottom end region of the vaporizer device.

A computing device that is part of a vaporizer system as defined above can be used for any of one or more functions, such as controlling dosing (e.g., dose monitoring, dose setting, dose limiting, user tracking, etc.), controlling sessioning (e.g., session monitoring, session setting, session limiting, user tracking, etc.), controlling nicotine delivery (e.g., switching between nicotine and non-nicotine vaporizable material, adjusting an amount of nicotine delivered, etc.), obtaining locational information (e.g., location of other users, retailer/commercial venue locations, vaping locations, relative or absolute location of the vaporizer itself, etc.), vaporizer personalization (e.g., naming the vaporizer, locking/password protecting the vaporizer, adjusting one or more parental controls, associating the vaporizer with a user group, registering the vaporizer with a manufacturer or warranty maintenance organization, etc.), engaging in social activities (e.g., interacting with one or more groups, etc.) with other users, or the like. The terms“sessioning,”, “session,” “vaporizer session,” or “vapor session” are used generically to refer to a period devoted to the use of the vaporizer. The period can include a time period, a number of doses, an amount of vaporizable material, and/or the like.

In the example in which a computing device provides signals related to activation of the heating element, or in other examples of coupling of a computing device with the vaporizer device 200 for implementation of various control or other functions, the computing device may execute one or more computer instructions sets to provide a user interface and underlying data handling. In one example, detection by the computing device of user interaction with one or more user interface elements can cause the computing device to signal the vaporizer device 200 to activate the heating element, either to a full operating temperature for creation of an inhalable dose of vapor/aerosol. Other functions of the vaporizer may be controlled by interaction of a user with a user interface on a computing device in communication with the vaporizer device 200.

The temperature of a heating element of a vaporizer may depend on a number of factors, including an amount of electrical power delivered to the heating element and/or a duty cycle at which the electrical power is delivered, conductive heat transfer to other parts of the electronic vaporizer and/or to the environment, latent heat losses due to vaporization of a vaporizable material from the wicking element and/or the atomizer as a whole, and convective heat losses due to airflow (e.g., air moving across the heating element or the atomizer as a whole when a user inhales on the electronic vaporizer). As noted above, to reliably activate the heating element or heat the heating element to a desired temperature, the vaporizer device 200 may, in some implementations of the current subject matter, make use of signals from a pressure sensor to determine when a user is inhaling. The pressure sensor can be positioned in the fluid path (e.g., airflow path) and/or can be connected (e.g., by a passageway or other path) to a fluid path (e.g., an airflow path) connecting an inlet for air to enter the device and an outlet via which the user inhales the resulting vapor and/or aerosol such that the pressure sensor experiences pressure changes concurrently with air passing through the vaporizer device from the air inlet to the air outlet. In some implementations of the current subject matter, the heating element may be activated in association with a user's puff, for example by automatic detection of the puff, for example by the pressure sensor detecting a pressure change in the fluid path (e.g., the airflow path).

Typically, the pressure sensor (as well as any other sensors 306) can be positioned on or coupled (e.g., electrically or electronically connected, either physically or via a wireless connection) to the controller 304 (e.g., a printed circuit board assembly or other type of circuit board). To take measurements accurately and maintain durability of the vaporizer device 200, a resilient seal (not shown) may optionally separate a fluid path (e.g., an airflow path) from other parts of the vaporizer device 200. The seal, which can be a gasket, may be configured to at least partially surround the pressure sensor such that connections of the pressure sensor to internal circuitry of the vaporizer device are separated from a part of the pressure sensor exposed to the fluid path (e.g., airflow path). In an example of a cartridge-based vaporizer device, such as vaporizer device 200, the seal may also separate parts of one or more electrical connections between a vaporizer body and a cartridge from one or more other parts of the vaporizer body. Such arrangements of the seal in the vaporizer device can be helpful in mitigating against potentially disruptive impacts on vaporizer components resulting from interactions with environmental factors such as water in the vapor or liquid phases, other fluids such as the vaporizable material, etc. and/or to reduce escape of air from the designed fluid path (e.g., airflow path) in the vaporizer device. Unwanted air, liquid or other fluid passing and/or contacting circuitry of the vaporizer can cause various unwanted effects, such as alter pressure readings, and/or can result in the buildup of unwanted material, such as moisture, the vaporizable material, etc. in parts of the vaporizer where they may result in poor pressure signal, degradation of the pressure sensor or other components, and/or a shorter life of the vaporizer device. Leaks in the seal can also result in a user inhaling air that has passed over parts of the vaporizer device containing or constructed of materials that may not be desirable to be inhaled.

FIGS. 6 and 7 depict another exemplary vaporizer cartridge 400 for a vaporizer device. More specifically, the vaporizer cartridge 400 includes a cartridge housing 402 with a vaporization channel 404. Aside from the differences discussed below, the cartridge housing 402 and the vaporization channel 404 are structurally similar to the cartridge housing 102 and the vaporization channel 104 of cartridge 100 in FIGS. 1-3 , respectively. As such, common elements are not discussed in detail herein.

In this illustrated implementation, the cartridge housing 402 includes a storage chamber 408 and a collector 410. The storage chamber 408 is configured to selectively contain the vaporizable material. The collector 410 is configured to control the exchange of air and vaporizable material (e.g., vaporizable material in liquid form) into and out of the storage chamber 408. The inclusion of the collector 410 may also improve a volumetric efficiency of the cartridge 400, defined as a volume of liquid vaporizable material that is eventually converted to an inhalable aerosol relative to a total volume of the liquid vaporizable material included in the cartridge 400 (which may correspond to a capacity of the cartridge 400 itself). In addition to the disclosure herein, additional details pertaining to the collector and other exemplary collectors can be found in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 11,253,001, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020/0128874, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/719,014, filed on Apr. 12, 2022, and entitled “Vaporizer Device Microfluidic Systems and Apparatuses,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As shown in more detail FIG. 7 , the first segment 406 a of the vaporization channel 404 is defined within the collector 410. As such, the plurality of first channels 412 a, 412 b are positioned within the collector 410. The plurality of first channels 412 a, 412 b are structurally similar to the plurality of first channels 124 a, 124 b of cartridge 100 in FIGS. 1-3 , and therefore, in use, the plurality or first channels 412 a, 412 b perform similarly to the plurality of first channels 124 a, 124 b as discussed above. Further, the plurality of first channels 412 a, 412 b are separated by a baffle 413, which is similar to baffle 413 of cartridge 100 in FIGS. 1-3

As further shown in FIG. 7 , at least a portion of the second segment 406 b is also defined within the collector 410. As such, a first portion 414 a of the at least one second channel 414 is positioned within the collector 410, whereas the remaining portion 414 b of the at least one second channel 414 is defined by the cartridge housing 402. The at least one second channel 414 is in fluid communication with the plurality of first channels 412 a, 412 b. Therefore, in use, the vaporized material will travel through at least one fluid passageway 416 a, 416 b of the plurality of first channels 412 a, 412 b and into the at least one second channel 414, in which the vaporized material will then pass through and out of the cartridge 400 for inhalation by a user.

As noted above, in some implementations, the cartridge, in addition to the collector, can also include an atomizer. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6-12 , the cartridge 400 can include an atomizer 418 that includes an atomizer housing 420, a heating element 422, and a wicking element 424. The heating element 422 can have a variety of configurations. In this illustrated embodiment, the heating element 422 includes one or more tines 426 (e.g., heating segments) located in a heating portion 428, one or more connecting portions or legs 430 (e.g., one, two, or more) extending from the tines 426, and a cartridge contact 432 formed at an end portion of each of the one or more legs 430.

In FIGS. 6, 7, and 11 , the heating element 422 is assembled with the atomizer housing 420 and wicking element 424, and FIG. 10 depicts an exploded view of the atomizer 418, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The atomizer housing 420 may be made of plastic, polypropylene, and the like. As shown in more detail in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the atomizer housing 420 includes four recesses 434 in which at least a portion of each of the legs 430 of the heating element 422 may be positioned and secured. Further, the atomizer housing 420 also includes an opening 436 providing access to an internal volume 438, in which at least the heating portion 428 of the heating element 422 and the wicking element 424 are positioned. While the wicking element 424 can have a variety of configurations, in this illustrated embodiment, the wicking element 424 is formed of a rectangular porous substrate.

Generally speaking, in some implementations, when the collector and atomizer are coupled together, one pathway for possible leakage of vaporizable material is across the heater legs. As a result, the vaporizable material can then travel between the space or gap between the collector and atomizer housing, and consequently, leak out of the cartridge and in certain instances, into other parts of the vaporizer device when the cartridge is coupled to the device. As described in more detail below, and shown in FIGS. 8-14 , the collector 410 and the atomizer 418 can be designed in such a way to help prevent vaporizable material from leaking across the heater leg, and thus out of the cartridge.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , and partially in FIGS. 13-14 , the collector 410 can include at least one recess 440 defined therein, which creates a bigger gap 442 between the collector 410 and the atomizer housing 420, which would not otherwise be present. These bigger gap 442 are configured to prevent vaporizable material from being drawn between a bottom outer-most surface 410 a of the collector 410 and a top outer-most surface 420 a of the atomizer housing 420, and ultimately, out of the cartridge 400. While the number of recesses can vary, in this illustrated implementation, the collector 410 includes four recesses 440. Further, the recesses 440 can have a variety of configurations. For example, as shown, each recess 444 has a substantially rectangular shape. In other implementations, the recesses can have other suitable shape and sizes. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the number, size, and shape of the recesses depend at least upon the structural configuration of the collector and the atomizer. As such, the number, size, and shape of the recesses are not limited to what is illustrated in the figures.

As partially shown in FIGS. 13-14 , each recess 440 is positioned within the collector 410 at a location such that when the collector 410 and atomizer 418 are coupled together, each recess 440 sits above a respective heater leg 430. The resulting gaps 442 that are created between the collector 410 and the heater legs 430 serve as capillary breaks for the vaporizable material. In other words, the resulting gaps 442 prevent a capillary drive from being formed between the collector 410 and atomizer housing 420 (e.g., between the collector and the heater leg), which would otherwise occur without the recesses 440. As a result, leakage across the heater leg 430, and thus out of the cartridge 400, can therefore be prevented.

Alternatively, or in addition, as shown in shown in FIGS. 8-9 , and partially in FIGS. 13-14 , the collector 410 can include at least one tab 444 extending outwards from the bottom-most surface 410 a of the collector 410. While the number of tabs 444 can vary, in this illustrated implementation, the collector 410 includes four tabs 444. Further, the tabs 444 can have a variety of configurations. For example, as shown, each tab 444 has a trapezoidal shape. In other implementations, the tabs can have other suitable shape and sizes. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the number, size, and shape of the tabs depend at least upon the structural configuration of the collector and the atomizer. As such, the number, size, and shape of the tabs are not limited to what is illustrated in the figures.

As further shown in FIGS. 13-14 , each tab 444 is configured to be inserted into a respective cut-out 446 of the atomizer housing 420 such that at least a portion of the respective heater leg 430 is positioned between the respective tab 444 and the atomizer housing 420. In other words, when the collector 410 and the atomizer are coupled to each other, the tabs 444 are seated in front of a portion of the heater legs. As a result, this can create a seamless interface (e.g, when the collector and the atomizer are coupled together (e.g., welded together), and therefore prevents vaporizable material from leaking across the heater leg 430, and thus out of the cartridge 400. In this illustrated implementation, each respective cut-out 446 is partially defined by opposing angled flanges 448 a, 448 b. Further, each respective cut-out is a complementary shape of the respective tab inserted therein. Thus, in this illustrated implementation, the respective cut-outs is the complementary shape (e.g., female shape) to the shape of the trapezoidal shape of the tab (e.g., male shape). A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the number, size, and shape of the respective cut-outs depend at least upon the structural configuration of the tabs, the collector, and the atomizer housing. As such, the number, size, and shape of the respective cut-outs are not limited to what is illustrated in the figures.

Terminology

When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements can also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements can be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present.

Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature can have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

Terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and implementations only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one of” or “one or more of” may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and/or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and/or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and/or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

Spatially relative terms, such as “forward”, “rearward”, “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements (including steps), these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed below could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed below could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings provided herein.

As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers can be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value can have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical values given herein should also be understood to include about or approximately that value, unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. It is also understood that when a value is disclosed that “less than or equal to” the value, “greater than or equal to the value” and possible ranges between values are also disclosed, as appropriately understood by the skilled artisan. For example, if the value “X” is disclosed the “less than or equal to X” as well as “greater than or equal to X” (e.g., where X is a numerical value) is also disclosed. It is also understood that the throughout the application, data is provided in a number of different formats, and that this data, represents endpoints and starting points, and ranges for any combination of the data points. For example, if a particular data point “10” and a particular data point “15” are disclosed, it is understood that greater than, greater than or equal to, less than, less than or equal to, and equal to 10 and 15 are considered disclosed as well as between 10 and 15. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

Although various illustrative embodiments are described above, any of a number of changes can be made to various embodiments without departing from the teachings herein. For example, the order in which various described method steps are performed may often be changed in alternative embodiments, and in other alternative embodiments, one or more method steps may be skipped altogether. Optional features of various device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Therefore, the foregoing description is provided primarily for exemplary purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims.

One or more aspects or features of the subject matter described herein can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various aspects or features can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which can be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. The programmable system or computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.

These computer programs, which can also be referred to programs, software, software applications, applications, components, or code, include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural language, an object-oriented programming language, a functional programming language, a logical programming language, and/or in assembly/machine language. As used herein, the term “machine-readable medium” refers to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device, such as for example magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, and Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs), used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor. The machine-readable medium can store such machine instructions non-transitorily, such as for example as would a non-transient solid-state memory or a magnetic hard drive or any equivalent storage medium. The machine-readable medium can alternatively or additionally store such machine instructions in a transient manner, such as for example, as would a processor cache or other random access memory associated with one or more physical processor cores.

The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. As mentioned, other embodiments may be utilized and derived there from, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if more than one is, in fact, disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. Use of the term “based on,” herein and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, apparatus, methods, and/or articles depending on the desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail herein, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementations described herein can be directed to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and subcombinations of several further features disclosed herein. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A cartridge for a vaporizer device, the cartridge comprising: a cartridge housing including a reservoir configured to selectively contain vaporizable material; and a vaporization channel extending at least partially through the cartridge housing, the vaporization channel configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from an atomizer to an outlet of the cartridge, the vaporization channel comprising, a plurality of first channels, wherein each first channel creates a fluid passageway that extends from a first end to a second end of the first channel, the first end being proximate to the atomizer, and at least one second channel in fluid communication with and downstream of the plurality of first channels, the at least one second channel being proximate to the outlet; wherein at least one first channel of the plurality of first channels is a grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the grooved channel such that the fluid passageway of at least one of the grooved channel and another first channel remains open to allow vaporized material to pass therethrough and into the at least one second channel.
 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first channels of the plurality of first channels has a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.
 3. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the vaporization channel comprises a first segment and a second segment that is downstream of the first segment, and wherein the first segment includes the plurality of first channels, the first segment having a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.
 4. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein the second segment includes the at least one second channel.
 5. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein at least one groove of the plurality of grooves has a triangular-shaped configuration.
 6. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the vaporization channel comprises a baffle positioned between the plurality of first channels, the baffle configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material within the vaporization channel.
 7. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the reservoir comprises a storage chamber configured to selectively contain the vaporizable material and a collector in fluid communication with the storage chamber, wherein the plurality of first channels are positioned within the collector.
 8. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein a portion of the second segment of the vaporization channel is located within the collector.
 9. The cartridge of claim 7, further comprising the atomizer, wherein the atomizer includes an atomizer housing having a wicking element disposed therein and in fluid communication with the plurality of first channels.
 10. The cartridge of claim 9, wherein the collector comprises at least one recess defined therein, the at least one recess creates a gap between the collector and the atomizer housing that prevents vaporizable material from being drawn between a bottom outer-most surface of the collector and a top outer-most surface of the atomizer housing.
 11. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the atomizer comprises a heating element with a heating portion disposed within the atomizer housing, and a connecting portion disposed at least partially outside the atomizer housing, wherein the gap is located between the connecting portion of the heating element and the collector.
 12. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the collector further comprises at least one tab extending outwards from the bottom-most surface of the collector, the at least one tab configured to be inserted into a respective cut-out of the atomizer housing such that a portion of the connecting portion is positioned between the at least one tab and the atomizer housing.
 13. The cartridge of claim 12, wherein the at least one recess of the collector is positioned adjacent and proximate to the at least one tab.
 14. The cartridge of claim 13, wherein the at least one tab has a trapezoidal shape.
 15. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a wicking element disposed within the cartridge housing, wherein the grooves are in fluid communication with the wicking element.
 16. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein another at least one first channel of the plurality of first channels is another grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel.
 17. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first channels are positioned laterally offset from each other relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge housing.
 18. A cartridge for a vaporizer device, the cartridge comprising: a vaporization channel extending from an atomizer toward an outlet of the cartridge, the vaporization channel configured to allow fluid to pass therethrough from the atomizer to the outlet, the vaporization channel comprising, a plurality of channels, wherein at least one channel of the plurality of channels is a grooved channel defining a fluid passageway extending from a first end to a second end, the first end being proximate to the atomizer, the grooved channel having a plurality of grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway.
 19. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein at least one channel of the plurality of channels has a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.
 20. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein the vaporization channel comprises a first segment and a second segment that is downstream of the first segment, and wherein the first segment includes the plurality of channels, the first segment having a cross-section that tapers towards the outlet of the cartridge.
 21. The cartridge of claim 20, wherein the second segment includes at least one other channel, wherein the at least one other channel is in fluid communication with the plurality of channels.
 22. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein at least one groove of the plurality of grooves has a triangular-shaped configuration.
 23. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein the vaporization channel comprises a baffle positioned between the plurality of channels, the baffle configured to promote mixing of air and vaporized material within the vaporization channel.
 24. The cartridge of claim 18, further comprising a wicking element disposed within the cartridge, wherein the grooves are in fluid communication with the wicking element.
 25. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein another at least one channel of the plurality of channels comprises another grooved channel with grooves extending in a direction along the fluid passageway of the another grooved channel.
 26. The cartridge of claim 18, wherein the plurality of channels are positioned laterally offset from each other relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.
 27. A vaporizer device, comprising: a vaporizer body and a cartridge of claim 1, the cartridge being configured to be coupled to the vaporizer body.
 28. The vaporizer device of claim 27, wherein the cartridge is removable from the vaporizer body. 